Answer Me This

What's the story with that new park near the Douglas Building?

"Living park" joins SU's neighborhood

Q:What's the story with that new park near the Douglas Building?

A: The new addition at 12th Ave. and James Court is a "woonerf"-or a "living park."

As explained by Seattle Parks and Recreation, the woonerf "provides pedestrians and cyclists priority on the street. This technique of shared spaces, traffic calming, and low speed limits contribute to improved pedestrian, bicycle, and automobile safety."

Among other design elements created by artist Ellen Sollod, "Cloud Veil" (pictured) is suspended over the park.

Seattle Parks and Recreation and the 12th Avenue Stewards are throwing a party at the new park on Thursday, April 14, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature refreshments, a ribbon cutting and live music (Garfield High's Jazz Band Trio).